PLAYERS TO WATCH
PEDRI
(Barcelona)
The 18-year-old played 61 games last season and is already an automatic starter for Barcelona and Spain. A worthy successor to midfield legends Andres Iniesta and Xavi, the passmaster appears destined for true greatness.
RODRIGO DE PAUL (Atletico Madrid)
The outstanding player in the Copa America final, setting up the winning goal with a sumptuous through ball. As one of the best dribbler’s in Serie A last season for Udinese, De Paul will add plenty to Atletico Madrid’s midfield.
ALEXANDER ISAK (Real Sociedad)
One of the breakout stars of Euro 2020, Isak was raised in Sweden by Eritrean parents. His skill, speed and directness have seen him score 72 senior goals by the age of 21. Has been linked with Arsenal and Barcelona.
IAGO ASPAS
(Celta Vigo)
Aspas is Celta’s captain, leader, talisman; no one player is as important to any La Liga club. Aged 33, he is in the form of his career, scoring 103 league goals across six seasons. Was unlucky to miss out on Euro 2020 selection.
JULES KOUNDE (Sevilla)
The Andalusians turned down Manchester City’s £50 million bid for defensive star Kounde a year ago because he is worth much more. The Frenchman is swiftly establishing himself as an elite defensive talent.
JOSE LUIS MORALES (Levante)
Aged 34, winger Morales, dubbed “El Comandante”, embodies the most admirable qualities of a footballer: hard work, graft, spirit and belief. His mindset? “Football is to be enjoyed – I prefer to win 5-4 than 1-0!”
YEREMY PINO (Villarreal)
Teenage star Yeremy debuted for Villarreal last season, scoring seven goals and starting the Europa League final triumph over Manchester United. The versatile forward has a bright future ahead of him.
BORJA IGLESIAS
(Real Betis)
Nicknamed “Panda”, Iglesias is the most expensive Betis signing this century, but hit just four goals in his first 52 appearances, then 12 in his next 17 to spearhead European qualification. The striker is an advocate of fan rights and societal issues.
MARTIN ODEGAARD (Real Madrid)
Revitalised after a starring cameo role on loan at Arsenal during the second half of last season, the Norwegian is back in Madrid and hopeful of cementing a first-team spot in a creative midfield role under Carlo Ancelotti.
MARCOS LLORENTE (Atletico Madrid)
With 12 La Liga goals and 11 assists last season, the versatile Llorente is a player reborn: in peak physical condition, tactically flexible and a relentless winner. An embodiment of Atletico Madrid’s success.